| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Lake Forest/100k people | California/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 837 | n/a (estimate) | 975 | 2,564 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 3 | n/a | 3.5 | 36.6 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 28 | n/a | 32.6 | 119.1 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 94 | n/a | 109.5 | 325.8 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 125 | n/a (estimate) | 146 | 486 | 359 |
| Burglary | 92 | n/a | 107.2 | 305.8 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 487 | n/a | 567.5 | 1,345.2 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 133 | n/a | 155.0 | 427.5 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 712 | n/a (estimate) | 830 | 2,078 | 1,760 |
Crime can be categorized into two primary types: violent and property crimes. Violent crimes encompass offenses such as murder, rape, robbery, and assault, whereas property crimes involve acts like burglary, theft, and vehicle theft. The overall crime rate in Lake Forest is 54% lower than the national average. Specifically, there were 125 violent crimes reported in Lake Forest, equivalent to 146 per 100,000 residents, which is lower than the national average by 59.4%. Additionally, Lake Forest recorded 712 property crimes, amounting to 830 per 100,000 people, lower than the national average by 52.9%.
In the most recently reported crime year, Lake Forest registered zero reported homicides. This statistic not only designates the area as an exemplar of security but also emanates a profound sense of safety within its community. A minimal incidence of severe violent crime not only fosters a strong sense of well-being among residents but also sets a commendable standard for other regions aiming to cultivate similarly safe surroundings.
AreaVibes has conducted polls asking local residents if they feel safe living in Lake Forest. Based on the results of the surveys (29 responses), 72% of people felt that there was very little crime in Lake Forest and felt safe walking alone at night. While 28% of people felt that it was not a safe place to live and did not feel safe walking alone at night.
Determining whether Lake Forest is a place to live may not always yield a simple answer, given the city's varying safety levels across different areas. Nonetheless, comprehending the city's overall crime rate can be a valuable asset. In broad terms, Lake Forest has an overall crime rate that is 54% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 2.29 daily occurrences, comprising 0.34 violent crimes and 1.95 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Lake Forest as a potential place to establish residency.
Year-over-year crime data allows us to analyze short-term trends in crime activity. By comparing crime rates from one year to the next, we can identify patterns and shifts in Lake Forest crime rates. This information can be invaluable for residents looking to make informed decisions on where to live. When comparing the most recent year to the previous year, total crime in Lake Forest has decreased by 11.4% year over year. Violent crime has increased by 31.6% and property crime has decreased by 16.2%.
The educational level within a community can have an influence on crime rates. Typically, higher levels of education are associated with reduced crime rates, as they offer individuals improved employment prospects and alternatives to engaging in criminal activities. Conversely, lower educational attainment tends to correspond with higher crime rates. In Lake Forest, 90.5% of residents have achieved at least a high school diploma, which differs from the national average of 83%.
In Lake Forest, the cost of living is 81.63% higher than the national average. A substantial cost of living can burden residents, particularly those with constrained financial means. When individuals contend with steep housing expenses, grocery bills, utility costs, healthcare and essential needs that strain their budgets, they may turn to criminal activities, such as theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Conversely, cities characterized by a more affordable cost of living may alleviate economic pressures, which could potentially lead to decreased crime rates.
The quality of housing and neighborhood conditions can influence crime rates. Neglected or run-down neighborhoods with poorly maintained properties may be more susceptible to criminal activities. In areas with housing affordability challenges, crime can emerge as a prominent issue. Certain individuals and families may find themselves residing in cramped or inadequate housing settings, amplifying stress levels and potentially fostering domestic conflicts and associated criminal incidents. It's worth noting that the median home price in Lake Forest stands at $1,228,714, a contrast to the national average of $326,622.
Why stop at city-to-city? With Local Insights, you can compare neighborhoods, zip codes, or even exact addresses. Access 300+ hyperlocal data points—from schools and crime to housing and amenities—to see which area is the better fit.
| Item | Lake Forest | California | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | n/a | 51,506 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | n/a | 3.6 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | California /100K | National /100K |
| California | 79,891 | 232 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Rancho Santa Margarita, CA | 49,889 | 81 | 524 | 605 |
| Villa Park, CA | 6,039 | 36 | 713 | 749 |
| Las Flores, CA | 5,257 | 158 | 676 | 834 |
| Laguna Woods, CA | 16,656 | 60 | 893 | 953 |
| Aliso Viejo, CA | 51,870 | 135 | 868 | 1,003 |
| Laguna Niguel, CA | 67,631 | 127 | 904 | 1,031 |
| Coto de Caza, CA | 15,939 | 198 | 848 | 1,046 |
| Lake Forest, CA | 86,858 | 146 | 830 | 975 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Danbury, CT | 86,891 | 262 | 1,257 | 1,519 |
| Alhambra, CA | 86,913 | 225 | 2,451 | 2,675 |
| Santa Fe, NM | 86,648 | 842 | 5,157 | 5,999 |
| Johns Creek, GA | 87,090 | 36 | 537 | 572 |
| Redwood City, CA | 87,093 | 472 | 1,620 | 2,092 |
| Lake Forest, CA | 86,858 | 146 | 830 | 975 |
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